MADISON, N.J. -- The Fairleigh Dickinson University men's lacrosse team dropped a 15-8 decision to Muhlenberg College in non-conference play on Friday night in their home opener at Robert T. Shield Field.

The Devils even out to 2-2 as the Mules improve to 8-0.

Senior David Stewart led FDU with two goals and three assists as sophomore John Belanger picked up a hat trick in the effort.

In goal, sophomore Adam Reifer played a pivotal role in the keeping the Devils within reach, making an astounding 21 saves in the effort, just three saves shy of the program's single-game record.

Both squads traded goals throughout the first half as the Devils scored three-straight goals from the sticks of Stewart, Belanger and freshman Drew Bukowiec in the second quarter to leave the half even at five each.

The Mules struck first in the third quarter but junior Michael Warg answered right back with a man-up goal off a Stewart feed. Muhlenberg added another but sophomore John Guido notched a goal of his own to tie things at 7-7 with 6:52 remaining in the third quarter.

It wasn't enough though, as the Mules used a 3-0 run in the final three minutes of the third quarter to gain the momentum and hold on to the lead for good.

Muhlenberg widened its lead, 15-7, at the end of the fourth quarter until Belanger had the final say with one final goal in the last minute.

Belanger and senior Will Kenny picked up four ground balls each and sophomore Mike Gartner caused three turnovers while senior Andrew Dakan caused two.

Up next, the Devils will face Arcadia University on Sunday, March 25 at 1 p.m. at Robert T. Shields Field.